dry brushing
The new buzz word these days is Detox. Detoxification means cleansing the blood. It's about resting, cleaning and nourishing the body from the inside out. There are external detox practices which include Dry Brushing or Epsom Salt baths. These are gentle ways for your lymphatic system to jumpstart and remove environmental toxins. There are also more aggressive ways to detox like daily coffee enemas or juice cleanses and fasting. It is always a good idea to work with a seasoned practitioner when choosing some of these practices as some may result in the body eliminating these toxins too quickly and causing discomfort. All of these practices can be a beneficial way to help a body that is struggling with pain, digestive problems, skin problems or even losing weight. They can aid in shifting the body into a healthier state. Below are my two favorite ways that I detox on a daily basis.
Dry Brushing
Your skin is your largest organ and one third of your body's toxins are excreted through it. This practice can help to unclog pores and even reduce cellulite, Hooray! To begin purchase a natural brush, not synthetic, with or without a handle works great.
This literally takes 5 minutes before a shower or bath, but make sure to brush in the shower or over a towel as skin will fall, a little gross I know. Now get naked and begin brushing at your feet with large sweeping motion, towards the direction of your heart. Make sure not to press to hard as the bristles can be rough on your skin. Spend some extra time on your inner thighs, chest, arm pits and neck, as these are great points to hit your lymph system.
When you are finished going over your body a couple of times, jump in the shower and rinse that dead skin off. It’s also great if you change the water temperature for a few minutes and stand under cold water, before getting out. That's it! You have just dry brushed all of those nasties off of your skin and your body is now soft and smoother than it has ever been. You can plan on doing this everyday or a few times a week.
Epsom Salt Bath
Epsom salts are made up of Magnesium Sulfate. It is a pure mineral compound that helps many ailments and Magnesium is essential for good health. Soaking in a warm bath with a few cups of salt can have magical effects. To make it even more wonderful and relaxing, you can also add essential oils like Lavender, Lemongrass or Peppermint
This practice is one of the easiest healing therapies you can do to use your body's natural detoxification system. For hundreds of years people have been taking epsom salt baths for it's beneficial properties, that soothe the mind, body and soul. These countless benefits include, soothing sore muscles, calming the nervous system, healing cuts, treating colds and congestion, easing headaches and drawing toxins from the body. Studies have also shown that Epsom Salt can be used to relieve constipation. The salt can act as a gentle laxative so use some caution and you can always add less salt if it has that effect.
Enjoy your bath, soak for at least 20 minutes and the best time to take one may be before bed. Your sleep will be amazing!